What is the BAR and what does it do?

It is important to note from the outset that there is no legal requirement for a removal or storage business in the UK to be a member of a recognised trade body.

The British Association of Removers (BAR) is the only removal and storage trading organisation certified by Trading Standards and has been the recognised voice of the industry for over 100 years.

It is responsible for reviewing standards and ensuring that staff are suitably trained, practices are ethical, premises and facilities kept clean and that the services provided offer real value for money to home movers.

Members sign up freely to the BAR Code of Practice which subjects them to disciplinary processes and sanctions for failing to uphold the high standards set by BAR.

All members, from small family sized businesses to large multinational movers, undergo annual audits and inspections to meet this industry standard.

Why use a BAR registered removals company?

More than 97% of 15,000 consumers surveyed by the independent review site, Reference Line, recommended using a BAR remover.

BAR registered removal companies offer several benefits which those who are not affiliated to a trade body – or one which is not explicitly linked to the removals industry – cannot:

Quality service

As mentioned above, with a BAR remover you are guaranteed a provider who has been approved by a certified industry body to meet the highest expectations with regards to staff training and practices.

Members can safely handle and protect a customer’s personal belongings and minimise risk to the possibility of damage or loss.

Staff are trained to help customers no matter their age, disability, level of English, reading capabilities and can clearly and simply explain their processes and offer advice free of charge.

Packing methods and materials

They can advise and even carry out the packing themselves using the most up-to-date methods.

Materials will be disposable in line with good environmentally friendly practices.

Purposed-built vehicles

All vehicles will comply with the latest transport legislation governing the operation of goods vehicles

Vehicles will be roadworthy and suitable for the removals work presented.

Flexible options will be provided for accessing hard to reach places.

Correct goods in transit insurance cover

All BAR members will offer insurance against loss or damage to household goods and personal effects.

Insurance will be provided as standard, usually subject to a declaration of value by the customers.

Many will also offer additional protection options for specialist items.

How a BAR removal company can help when things go wrong?

BAR members acknowledge that despite their best efforts sometimes things go wrong some of which is outside of their control.

They attempt to minimise disruption and distress to their clients by offering support and alternatives when things go wrong.

Two ways in which they do this are:

Payment protection — When you book with a BAR registered remover you are guaranteed a fixed moving date. The upfront fee you pay is protected by the BAR Advanced Payment Guarantee (APG) scheme so that if the removal company cancels they are contractually obliged to return your fee or arrange for another BAR removal company to turn up.

An Independent complaints handling process — If you are not happy with any aspect of the service you are provided with you have recourse through an independent complaints handling service, the Furniture Ombudsman.

How can I check to see whether a removals company is a BAR member?

The best way to identify if a removals company is BAR registered is to check its website.

A BAR badge should be displayed on its marketing materials and often on staff uniform and vehicles.

Always remember, if you’re moving – look for the badge.

Of course the best way to check whether it is still a member is to go on the BAR website and use the search function.

In summary:

BAR members offer the highest quality service

Vehicles, staff and warehouses all of expected standard

Professional staff will guide you throughout the process

Insurance will be offered as standard

Your moving date is fixed and payment protected through a recognised scheme

Suitable method of redress where unhappy with service provided

Looking for a BAR registered removals company near you?

GoodMove is a BAR registered removals company which has been offering an affordable removals service for over 36 years from it’s base in Colchester, Essex.

We take great pride in our work and have helped thousands of families move across the country and even to far-flung destinations like South Africa and Australia.

Sean Delaney is a creative copywriter with his finger on the pulse for all the latest happenings in the removals industry. He authors in-depth guides and blog content on selling your house, packing, moving and all the legal and insurance jargon in between. In addition to writing for GoodMove, he also provides editorial and copywriting services for a range of clients across the legal and recruitment sectors.

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